In 1885, Miss Helen Purcell’s kindness and charity founded this community.To this day, and always, not-for-profit Helen Purcell places people over profits.

The original Helen Purcell Home was founded following the death of Miss Purcell, who provided in her will for the establishment of a non-denominational retirement home for women who were alone in the world.

Chartered in 1885, The Helen Purcell Home began operation in a building that had previously housed the Putnam Seminary. In the late 1930’s, The Helen Purcell Home was relocated to its present location on the O.N. Townsend homestead, on Norwood Boulevard. Many are the stories about the people and events involving Helen Purcell, and we are grateful for your consideration to become a part of that history. Here is one addition to that history we just want to mention: Helen Purcell now cares for gentlemen as well as ladies.